Barriers of Integrating Solar + Storage Installation Upstream in Modular Construction

In recent years, the U.S. power grid system was heavily tested by natural disasters, intense weather, and high peak loads, all causing an increase in power outages. This has resulted in a growing interest in resilient designs, such as solar + storage (SPS) systems. Although SPS costs have decreased, soft costs have remained relatively stagnant. High initial costs remain the greatest barrier for resilient homebuilding mainly due to inefficient construction processes. Modular construction, having a factory-controlled environment and control over the design of the homes (e.g., integrated systems, tighter tolerances/fits), is better suited to address these issues (e.g., efficiencies, waste, inventory control, quality) Modular construction has an advantage in addressing the affordability issues connected to the high initial costs of SPS. Even though modular housing has such an advantage, most manufacturers decide to install the SPS system on-site, using hired contractors, which increases the installation costs, prolongs the building process, and can cause inspection problems. Moving the installation process into the factory has many barriers, including change of scope of work at some workstations without affecting the whole production line, change of quality control, warehousing of SPS in correct conditions, change in the supply chain and certification of workers for the SPS installation. If those barriers are identified and resolved it could save installation costs, and total lead time, resulting in higher productivity and a decrease in the overall price. This paper identifies those barriers for industry adoption of integrating solar + storage installation upstream in modular construction.